Hyderabad: Hyderabad’s journey toward becoming a zero-carbon city is gaining traction—one metro ride at a time. A 2023 study reveals that a 30-kilometre trip on the Hyderabad Metro Rail (HMR) emits a staggering 97% less carbon dioxide than a car, making it one of the city’s most impactful climate solutions. Each year, the metro prevents an estimated 88 million kilograms of CO₂ emissions by shifting commuters away from private vehicles. Since its launch in 2017, HMR has emerged as a cornerstone of Hyderabad’s sustainable mobility strategy. Its electric trains produce zero direct emissions, and the system has cumulatively reduced over 424 million kilograms of CO₂.
By easing road congestion and reducing idling emissions, the metro also contributes to better air quality in a city grappling with high particulate matter levels. HMR’s green credentials go beyond just clean rides. Its regenerative braking system recycles 40% of traction energy, while 9.35 MWp of rooftop solar panels installed across depots and stations now meet 12% of the metro’s total energy needs. These panels not only reduce dependence on fossil fuels but also serve as a model for integrating renewable energy into urban infrastructure. Despite these gains, Hyderabad’s zero-carbon ambition faces hurdles.
Only 40% of the city’s 8 million daily motorized trips rely on public transport, while private vehicle ownership continues to surge. Air quality remains a concern, with past carbon deposit incidents affecting metro operations. Expanding HMR’s Phase 2—especially the long-delayed Old City Corridor—could further reduce emissions, but funding and execution delays persist. To close the gap to zero-carbon status, Hyderabad must accelerate electric vehicle (EV) adoption, scale up solar capacity, and implement green urban planning—such as pedestrian zones, urban forests, and integrated mobility hubs.
While the metro’s low-emission footprint is a major win, sustained policy and infrastructure investments are essential to transform Hyderabad into a truly climate-resilient city. A metro ride isn’t just a commute—it’s a climate action.
